US Promotes Development of Civil Society and Media Freedom in Belarus

One vital focus of U.S. assistance to Belarus is the development of a civil society and media freedom.

U.S. assistance to Belarus also supports the Belarusian people in achieving a government that respects their democratic rights and fundamental freedoms.

The U.S. assistance is targeting also on areas to promote the opening of space for the free expression of political views.

U.S. announced also an additional $4 million to be used in response to the Government of Belarus’ crackdown on civil society, independent media and the political opposition following the flawed December 2010 presidential election.

Other programs support civic engagement such as projects in the social sector and those working to empower entrepreneurs, and increase access to independent higher education. The U.S. assistance also include humanitarian assistance programs that will relieve suffering of the vulnerable.

Provide immediate humanitarian and legal assistance to those being repressed

Enhance civic participation and civil society development

Increase media freedom and access to objective information

Support political pluralism

Investing in People (IIP)

Help implement the World Health Organization’s strategy to prevent and treat tuberculosis

Increase access to higher education, including support to the European Humanities University and the development of an English language MBA program

Support the integration of vulnerable populations such as orphans, the elderly and the disabled into society and improve their standards of living.

Economic Growth (EG)

Strengthen independent business associations, expand the small and medium enterprise sector, and support their with trade potential in order to diversify and strengthen free-market mechanisms

Humanitarian Assistance (HA)

Provide basic assistance to the most vulnerable populations through the transportation and distribution of humanitarian assistance in the forms of food, clothing, and medical supplies donated by private American citizens and the U.S. Government

RECENT SUCCESSES:

Supported the efforts of 48 business associations to monitor the business environment, advocate for reforms, and mobilize the business community and broader civil society to influence public policy, leading to an 11 percent increase in membership.

Helped to reintegrate an additional 70 victims of trafficking back into society.

Mina Fabulous follows the news, especially what is going on in the US State Department. Mina turns State Department waffle into plain English. Mina Fabulous is the pen name of Carmen Avalino, the NewsBlaze production editor. When she isn’t preparing stories for NewsBlaze writers, she writes stories, but to separate her editing and writing identities, she uses the name given by her family and friends.